Single for the Holidays

Whether you’re newly single or have been going solo for years, this day can be rough.
It can be especially hard for me since my family doesn’t celebrate holidays for religious reasons. I’ve always respected their faith but made the personal choice to partake in holidays years ago.
When in relationships I would spend holidays with “his” family and friends. However this year will be different. With no man in sight and most of my close friends leaving town I should be sad and feeling down right? Wrong!
I’ve had other solo holidays in the past and over the years have come up with 8 ways to stay upbeat and enjoy this time of year to the fullest!

1.) JUST SAY YES
You may find yourself getting last minute invites to friend’s places for the holidays. The strong temptation to resist what feels like a pity call will arise. Go anyway. Don’t see yourself as an after thought. Remember that most people are very busy with buying last minute gifts, stress from inlaws and prepping their homes for visitors. Grab a hostess gift and show up. When you’re asked why you’re not with family or if you’re in a relationship, be honest and upbeat then change the topic if it makes you feel uneasy.

2.) COOK YOUR SPECIALTY FOR SOMEONE IN NEED – In the past I loved cooking a dish and taking it to my ex’s family for Christmas Eve. The smell of my kitchen all warm and festive.
Well there’s no reason you have to skip that this year. Whip up your specialty and fill it in tupperware containers. Grab a few friends and drive around areas frequented by the homeless. Pass out your home cooked meal to those who need it most. I like to hand out at least a dollar to each person if I can.
Not great in the kitchen? Then pick up something yummy and shareable from the store.

3.) GATHER YOUR ISLAND OF MISFIT TOYS
We all know that cute song and video from our childhood. A bunch of misfit and seemingly unwanted toys got together and sang a memorable tune that still strikes cords with a lot of us this time of year. I’m sure if you scroll through your phone you’ll find others in the same or similar situation as you. Maybe they’re newly single and not quite ready to do the family thing solo. Perhaps they’ve spent loads of cash going home for Thanksgiving and now need to stay local and away from relatives. Throw a fun, low pressure party at your place. You could also gather for a non traditional dinner at your favorite local spot.

4.) CELEBRATE YOUR FOREIGN FRIENDS
Most of us are fortunate enough to have friends from all over the world. For example I have close friends with family in Germany, Africa, China, Korea and Vietnam just to name a few. Send out a fun last minute invite for a “Christmas around the World” party. Tell each friend to bring a dish representative of their home land. Make (or buy) one yourself and share with laughs, well wishes and cocktails!

5.) BE AN ELF
Two students from Union Catholic Regional High School started this adorable and much needed organization to make a difference this Christmas. Just reading one of these letters will take your mind off yourself and warm your heart. Fulfill at least one then share the link with a few of your friends.

6.) CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSET
Get your new year started off right for you and someone else. I like to donate my things to Genesis in Dallas. Proceeds go to a local women’s shelter. It’s also helpful if you’re able to take these directly to shelters in need. Google local clothing drives in your area.

7.) VISIT VETERANS, CHILDREN AND THE ELDERLY
Even if all you can provide is a listening ear. These are people who are often confined for the holidays. Show your appreciation to Veterans, listen to stories from the elderly and bring toys to children, Dress up in a fun and festive costume as an added bonus for the kids!

8.) PUT “LOVE” AT THE TOP OF YOUR RESOLUTIONS LIST
Resolve to do things like this all year! Not just romantic love or even love that is reciprocal. Vow to love those in need. Those who may not be able to give anything in return. Take satisfaction in the fact that they’ll most likely pay it forward.